There’s something magical about the transformation of simple ingredients into a dish that can truly shine on any table. I remember the first time I decided to try my hand at cooking tofu. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. After experimenting with various marinades and cooking techniques, I discovered a method that not only made the tofu crispy on the outside but also infused it with a delightful sesame soy glaze. This dish has since become a staple in my kitchen, and it always brings back memories of that cozy evening spent perfecting this recipe.
Ingredients
1 block firm tofu
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes gently with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when cooked.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
While the tofu is cooking, prepare the sesame soy glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, and ginger powder until well combined.
Once the tofu is crispy, pour the sesame soy glaze over the tofu in the skillet. Gently toss to coat each piece thoroughly and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the tofu and give it one last gentle toss. Remove the skillet from heat and serve the crispy tofu warm, garnished with fresh green onions.
This Golden Crispy Tofu with Sesame Soy Glaze is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful crunch and savor the delicious glaze that coats each piece of tofu. I know it will become a cherished recipe in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!